| Pride Starts & Lives Here, Indeed đ Honoring Harvey Milk: Where Pride Begins in WeHo
In West Hollywood, Pride doesnât just begin, itâs rooted in history. Each year, WeHo Pride kicks off on Harvey Milk Day, May 22, honoring one of the most influential figures in LGBTQ+ civil rights.
Harvey Milk made history in 1977 as Californiaâs first openly gay elected official, helping to advance equality and visibility at a time when both were far from guaranteed. Today, his legacy continues to shape communities like West Hollywood, which was the first city in the nation to formally recognize Harvey Milk Day as a holiday. In WeHo, this day marks more than remembrance, itâs the official start of Pride season. The annual Harvey Milk Day celebration brings the community together through art, performance, and storytelling, setting the tone for weeks of programming that celebrate identity, resilience, and progress.
From there, Pride continues through all of June. WeHo Pride Weekend starts on Friday, June 5 and culminates on Sunday, June 7 with the iconic WeHo Pride Parade, a powerful reminder of how far the movement has come, and the work that continues. Pride FOMO is real around these parts. If youâre looking to dive deeper or plan your Pride season, stay informed and connected, learn more and get involved - to get you started, here are a few trusted resources:
đHarvey Milk Day â Official WeHo Pride Event Page
đWeHo Pride Full Event Lineup & Updates
đVisit West Hollywood Pride Guide & Highlights
đHarvey Milk Foundation (History & Educational Resources) |
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| No stage, no scriptâjust
real conversations. Join Len fireside with Chamber members to talk business, leadership, and whatâs next for WeHo. |
Len sits down with Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Vice President of Governmental Affairs, and West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce's First Vice Chair of its Board of Directors, Stephanie Cohen, to talk about why chamber membership is so important to CSMC. |
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| April GAC Meeting Recap
At the April meeting, the Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) reviewed several key legislative and local policy items impacting West Hollywood. Highlights included updates from Senator Ben Allenâs office, discussion of upcoming City initiatives like potential off-site signage ordinances, and an update on the Cityâs Restaurant Grant Program.
The Committee also took positions on state legislation, recommending to the Chamber's Board of Directors they support AB 1775 (expanding licensing benefits for transgender veterans) and oppose AB 2253 due to concerns about increased regulatory burdens and costs. A discussion on the Chamberâs draft Advocacy Agenda emphasized the importance of maintaining thoughtful, case-by-case review while establishing guiding principles for future decisions.
How the Chamber Supports Members: GAC Process Refresher
Did you know the Chamber has a formal process to advocate on behalf of members? If your business has a project, issue, or policy concern that needs support, the GAC serves as the first step. Members can submit a request along with supporting materials, then present directly to the Committee during its monthly meeting. From there, GAC evaluates the request, provides feedback, and votes on whether to recommend support.
That recommendation is then forwarded to the Chamberâs Board of Directors, which makes the final decision. If approved, the Chamber may advocate publicly, submit letters, or provide testimony on your behalf. This structured process ensures that every request is reviewed thoughtfully and consistently, while giving members a clear pathway to have their voices heard on issues that matter to their business and the broader community.
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Who Knew?
Fanarof fans might be surprised to learn that to David, the world truly is his oyster, considering his multi-national citizenship with the United States, Canada, and Germany! |
Visit zpizza đ 8943 Santa Monica Blvd, WeHo
đ www.zpizzaweho.com đ Open late (until 3AM, Fridays & Saturdays) |
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| Spotlight Feature: David Fanarof, Owner of zpizza This month, we are especially excited to spotlight someone who truly embodies what it means to be part of the West Hollywood community: David Fanarof, owner of zpizza.
If youâve spent any time in the Rainbow District, chances are youâve either stopped into zpizza or walked by and had that âI should go in thereâ moment. And honestly, you should. David has created more than just a pizza spot; heâs built a place that feels welcoming, consistent, and genuinely rooted in the neighborhood.
David didnât start out in the restaurant world. After years in a corporate career, he wanted to build something more personal, something rooted in his own vision and values, and one that would allow him to be more present in the community. That leap led him to purchase the West Hollywood zpizza location from its founder (and his father). For David, giving back isnât a separate initiative, itâs built into the day-to-day experience heâs creating where his focus is simple but powerful:
âSuccess is when you create something people genuinely loveâwhen your team feels proud to be here, and when the community responds to what youâre putting out into the world.â And that connection really matters, especially right now.
As we head into Pride season, zpizza sits right in the heart of where so much of that energy comes to life. For David, being part of this community isnât just about location, itâs about showing up, creating a space where people feel good, and contributing to the everyday rhythm of West Hollywood. Whether itâs a quick slice, a late-night stop (theyâre open until 3AM on weekends), or a familiar place to gather, zpizza is part of the fabric of Pride and the neighborhood year-round.
âPeople tell me all the time they actually feel better after eating our pizzaâand thatâs intentional. From day one, weâve aimed to create a different kind of experience.â
Like many small business owners, David is navigating a lot, rising costs, shifting customer habits, and the unpredictability thatâs become the norm in the restaurant industry. But through it all, his focus hasnât changed: keep the quality high, keep the experience consistent, and keep building something people come back to. And people do come back. A lot.
When he does step away, youâll likely find him travelingâexploring new places and perspectives that continue to inspire how he shows up back home in WeHo. Thereâs something to be said for a place where you know what youâre going to get, not just in the food, but in how it feels to be there. Thatâs precisely what David built at zpizza. Itâs reliable in the best way, and in a city like West Hollywood, that matters. So as Pride kicks off and the city comes alive over the next several weeks, consider this your reminder to support the businesses that help make that energy possible, not just during Pride, but all year long.
â Either way you get it - slices there, to go, or grabbing a whole pie to share - you can't go wrong. |
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Dear Members, We want to meet you!
Join us for breakfast at The Butcherâs Daughter and connect face-to-face with the West Hollywood Chamber community. We encourage you to bring business cards, promotions, or swag to share. |
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| This Month's Featured Member
Benny's Tacos Celebrating Cinco de Mayo All Mayo Long
Celebrate Cino De Mayo all month long at Benny's Tacos West Hollywood! Throughout May, enjoy 10% off all catering orders, perfect for office parties, family gatherings, and festive celebrations! Bring the bold flavors of authentic Mexican inspired favorites to your event - from tacos and sides to crowd pleasing spreads made daily. Let Benny's Tacos West Hollywood help you turn every May moment into a fiesta worth remembering - all month long!
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By Vicky Brown | Presented by Idomeneo Inc. Blog More Human, More Resources - HR for Entrepreneurs |
Why Meal and Rest Break Compliance Is Really an Ops Problem
Most businesses have some form of a break policy in place. It may outline when meal and rest breaks should occur and confirm that employees are entitled to them. However, compliance in California is not just about having a policy. It is about whether employees can realistically take those breaks within the structure of the workday.
If your business relies on employees to âfind timeâ for breaks, you are not operating within a compliant structure. You are relying on individual discretion in an environment that may not support it. This gap between policy and practice is where risk begins to build. Check out Idomeneo Inc.'s Blog page for the full blog & vlog |
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| By Christopher Thornberg, PhD | Beacon Economics | California Econ Policy, Economics, Gen Econ, Real Estate | April 28, 2026 |
Priced Out of California: Call A Supply Problem A Supply Problem The California Policy Lab, a consortium run by the University of California system, recently released a report titled Priced Out: Relocation Amidst Californiaâs Affordability Crisis. The motivation for the report has been the surge of outmigration from the state in recent years.
In other words, the report tells us what we already know, and thatâs not a flaw. In a world full of false narratives, stating the obvious is often a necessary starting point to fixing problem. But whatâs troubling is what the report doesnât sayâand that omission matters.
Its conclusion calls on policymakers to reduce the âcost of livingâ to stem outmigration. But it never explains how. And here, the mechanism really matters because there is only one mechanism that will actually work: building more housing. Remarkably, the report never makes that plea.
Read the full post by Christopher Thornberg, PhD here |
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As West Hollywood heads into Pride season and a busy summer of events, recent updates from the Cityâs public safety teams reflect both increased activity and a coordinated, proactive approach to keeping the community safe.
In April, the City's Security Ambassadors maintained an average 7-minute response time while responding to significantly higher demand across the city. Calls for service increased by nearly 90% year-over-year, alongside sharp rises in Sheriff assistance (+258%) and EMS/Fire coordination (+287%), highlighting a more active environment and strong collaboration between on-the-ground teams and emergency services.
On the law enforcement side, the West Hollywood Sheriffâs Station continues to report steady response times and an overall decrease in serious crime year-over-year, even as calls for service remain high. Enforcement activityâincluding DUI arrests, theft-related incidents, and traffic responsesâcontinues to focus on high-traffic corridors and quality-of-life concerns that impact both residents and businesses. At the same time, the Cityâs Public Safety Division continues to emphasize a visible, community-based approach, combining law enforcement with services like the 24/7 Security Ambassador program, safety escorts, and coordinated outreachâparticularly around unhoused services and behavioral health support.
With major events like WeHo Pride and global events such as the FIFA World Cup on the horizon, the City and its public safety partners are actively preparing for increased visitation, with a focus on crowd management, traffic flow, and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment across West Hollywood.
Together, these efforts reflect a highly coordinated system designed to adapt to increased activity while maintaining the safety, accessibility, and vibrancy that define the community. |
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| Public Safety Updates for WeHo Businesses
In partnership with the LA County Sheriffâs Department â West Hollywood Station and the City of West Hollywood Community Safety Department, this section shares important safety updates, prevention programs, and resources to help local businesses stay informed and prepared. From training opportunities to crime-prevention programs and safety alerts, our goal is to help keep West Hollywood a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and do business.
Stay Connected to Local Safety Alerts
Businesses can receive real-time safety alerts and advisories from the Sheriffâs Department by signing up for Nixle notifications. Simply text your ZIP code to 888-777 to receive updates about incidents, road closures, and public safety notices affecting West Hollywood. |
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West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Member Feedback Survey - Tell Us What's Important to You & Your Business!
We appreciate your feedback. Your input will help us improve our programs, develop new resources, and better support your business.
Click on the Take Survey button below today. Taking 5-10 minutes of your incredibly valuable time to complete the Member Feedback Survey will have a big ROI - Amplify Your Voice and help us serve you better. Thank you! |
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Chamber members can request advocacy support through the Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC), giving businesses a direct voice in local policy decisions. In West Hollywood, Pride season begins on Harvey Milk Day (May 22) and continues through the end of Juneâmaking it one of the longest-running Pride celebrations anywhere. West Hollywood spans just 1.9 square milesâbut has a global reputation as a hub for creativity, culture, and inclusivity.
Pride season isnât just a celebrationâitâs one of the most impactful economic periods of the year for West Hollywood businesses. Now that you know, be part of the conversation. Join the Chamber and help shape what's next for West Hollywood. |
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Get happy every day at West Hollywood's zpizza 11am-8pm.
Artisan Hand-tossed, stone fire-baked crust. Fresh toppings. Pioneer of Vegan and gluten-free đ pies. Discover #zpizza and taste the #zdifference
8943 Santa Monica Blvd | WeHo
310-360-1414 Open Monday-Thursday & Sundays from 11am - 2am and on Fridays & Saturdays from 11am - 3am. |
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| Hello West Hollywood!
Mic Drop karaoke bar is finally open and it exceeds expectations! Check them out and book your next hot night out. 8811 Santa Monica Blvd | WeHo Open Thursday & Friday 6pm to 2am , Saturday 5pm to 2am, Sunday 5pm to midnight, Wednesday 6pm to midnight |
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Townhouse introduces Postcards From Paradise, a limited edition Spring Summer 2026 nail art collection available from April 21 through September across its US salons.
Inspired by sun soaked destinations, the collection features six designs including Limoncello, Cherry Picked, Capri in Bloom, Ocean Dip, City Siesta, and Golden Hour, each capturing a distinct travel moment through refined color, texture, and detail.
Available as a 30 minute add on to any gel manicure, each look can be personalized with custom finishes and tones. Guests can also shop Flawless Polish shades to recreate or extend the look at home with a high shine, gel like finish. |
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If more WeHo sellers knew this... The price a serious buyer will pay is shaped before showings. It doesnât happen by accident. Most sellers think itâs all about the showing.
Itâs not. The conversations before showings do the shaping. Marjorie Dick Stuart Expert Negotiator
240-731-8079 Sothebyâs International Realty marjorie@marjoriedickstuartla.com
DRE#: 02244682 |
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Doug Lockeâs Rock ânâ Roll Cabaret returns for Season Three with a glamorous new home on Sunset, The West Hollywood EDITION, on Thursday, May 7 for 80s VICE CITY.
Step into a neon-drenched world inspired by early MTV, Miami Vice glamour, and the decadence of Scarface. Expect live performances, DJs, specialty acts, bold fashion, and a room full of unforgettable energy.
Think power suits, silk shirts, gold chains, neon lights, and full main character energy. This is the official kickoff of Season Three, and the Cabaretâs most elevated chapter yet. Free with RSVP. Limited capacity. Guests are encouraged to dress for the theme and arrive ready for a night of music, spectacle, and a little bit of chaos. |
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Witness another side of visual artist Robert Rauschenberg in a rare dance retrospective celebrating the groundbreaking collaborations between Rauschenberg and dance visionaries Trisha Brown and Merce Cunningham.
Accompanied by Laurie Andersonâs bewitching electronic score, Brownâs masterpiece Set & Reset ripples with hypnotic, fluid energy. Cunninghamâs rarely seen comedic piece Travelogue, created with John Cage and Rauschenberg, showcases dancers in playful, absurd exchanges. Donât miss this exhilarating retrospective on three artists whose collaborations redefined creative expression and revolutionized dance, sound, and visual art. At The Wallis in Beverly Hills from May 7 - 9. Tickets at The Wallis.org.
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To submit promotions, events, or other news for inclusion in an upcoming edition of WeHo Works, or on WHCC's social media platforms (IG, Facebook, &
LinkedIn), please use the WHCC Marketing Submission Form. Be sure to review all submission deadlines and requirements. |
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| West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
8272 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90046 Ph: 323-650-2688 |
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